pic

Teen & Adult Orthodontics Specialist

ORTHODONTISTS LOCATED IN SANTA ROSA & WINDSOR, CA

misc image
Times have changed from those old stereotypes of awkward teens with a mouth full of metal that defined the orthodontics experience. Orthodontia is now full of discreet options that serve both teens and adults. Joseph Eliason, DDS, MSD, APC, and Kelly Choi, DMD, MSD, at Smile Orthodontics serve patients of all ages, delivering them the stellar smile they’ve hoped for. Smile Orthodontics provides two options for your orthodontic care with convenient locations in Windsor and Santa Rosa, California. Call or schedule your appointment online today!

Why are teen and adult orthodontics important?

Teeth crowding, bite misalignments, and crooked teeth don’t disappear independently. These issues can lead to pain, tooth decay, and low self-esteem. Orthodontics can improve your ability to chew and speak properly. It’s easier to address issues with younger patients, including teens, while they’re still growing and their teeth and jaws are still pliable.

However, adults still benefit from correcting misalignments and straightening their teeth. Aging, environmental impacts, and bad habits can all benefit from adult orthodontics.

Can you be too old for teen and adult orthodontics?

You’re never too old for braces, and orthodontists have noticed an increase in patients in their 50s, 60s, and 70s. 

Adult braces can help patients struggling with:

  • Periodontal problems
  • Bone loss
  • Weakness in the jaw and declining health
  • Restoration of missing teeth
  • Self-esteem

Damaged and lost teeth and the desire to preserve the bones in your teeth and jaw can all drive patients to pursue braces at later ages.

Do braces take longer for adults?

Dr. Joseph Eliason and Dr. Kelly Choi use the Damon® System for both kids and adults, and this method is more comfortable and generally faster than traditional braces. The duration of any treatment varies by individual and the severity of their issues. Generally, adult bones are denser, so their treatment can take longer. 

How else does treatment differ in teen and adult orthodontics?

The earlier a patient receives an orthodontic evaluation, the easier it is for your provider to align teeth as they’re growing. Orthodontists can use appliances that facilitate proper jaw growth as patients are still growing and developing. 

As patients get older, the treatment may become more involved. Adult patients with severe overbites, underbites, or open bites may need surgery to correct their bite. Older patients may also have issues that younger patients haven’t had the time to develop, like gum disease or biomechanical limitations. 

Patients with missing permanent teeth may also suffer further bone loss, and those patients may need additional bone restoration before realignment. 

The key to your orthodontic care, regardless of your age, is working with an orthodontist who understands that each patient has different needs that require different care. At Smile Orthodontics, Dr. Kelly Choi and Dr. Joseph Eliason are highly skilled at developing personalized treatment plans that take all factors into account, treating the whole patient, not just their teeth. Call or schedule an appointment online with Smile Orthodontics today to work with an orthodontist who understands your needs!